Blind Spots - Because of the size of today's trucks, there are large areas around the truck that the operator cannot see. It is very easy to hide a car or small truck from an operator's field of vision. Do not get too close to the side or rear of a large vehicle.

At Intersections - Be attentive to a truck's turning signals. Become aware of which way a truck wants to turn. Trucks require much more road space to complete a turn than a car.

• Do not crowd the stop line when a large truck is attempting to turn in your direction. It may have to end up in your lane with the trailer to complete a turn.

• When approaching a truck from the rear which has its right turn signal on, do not attempt to squeeze along the right side of the truck. It will require most of both lanes to complete the turn.
  

Along High Speed Highways - It is extremely dangerous to drive alongside of large trucks. It limits your own visibility, and you could very easily end up in a driver's blind spot.

• When you are entering a highway and a large truck moves left one lane allowing you access to the driving lane, do not stay beside the truck. Either move in behind it, or pass it, giving it opportunity to move back into the lane it belongs.

• When moving into a lane in front of a large truck, make sure there is lots of space between you and the truck. The driver of the truck is trying to maintain a safe space cushion. This is especially important in heavy traffic situations.

• Do not brake heavily when you are in front of a large truck. It takes more space to stop a large truck than a small car or truck.

Other Things to Remember:

• Do not crowd a truck when it is backing off the street into a loading area.
• Never drive behind a truck when it is backing up. The driver may not always be able to see you. If you should have to stop, you will get hit.

Many trucks run on time-sensitive schedules. Whenever possible and safe, give them the right of way, especially in heavy traffic situations.

Information shared compliments of  Prescott    www.kriska.com

For more truck safety tips, visit the following sites:

Ontario Trucking Association
Safety Tips for Drivers of Big Rigs

The Trucker's Report